FG Promises Completion of Lekki Deep Seaport–Epe Road in 21 Months

The Federal Government has assured that the 25-kilometre access road linking Lekki Deep Seaport to Epe and Ijebu-Ode will be completed within a 21-month schedule, describing the project as fully on course and strategically viable.

Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, gave the assurance during an inspection of the road project in Lagos on Sunday, expressing confidence in the contractor’s capacity to deliver on time.

Umahi noted that China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) won the contract through a competitive bidding process, citing the firm’s track record with the Lekki Deep Seaport, Keffi–Makurdi Super Highway, and the ongoing Makurdi–Enugu Road as evidence of its competence.

He explained that the project includes two carriageways spanning 25km, six lanes, and major bridges of approximately 3.5km and 2.4km, adding that the Federal Government has paid 30 per cent of the cost while CHEC would source the remaining 70 per cent under an EPC+F arrangement.

Umahi said feasibility studies confirmed that tolling along the corridor will allow the project to repay itself, and highlighted ongoing discussions to redesign certain sections and address minor technical and environmental challenges.

“I believe strongly that China Harbour will complete this job within 21 months,” he said. “We have done the traffic counts, and this road can pay for itself.”

“With the involvement of the Debt Management Office, Ministry of Finance and the attorney-general, there is little room for anything other than due process,” he added. “International funders scrutinise every detail before disbursing funds, ensuring transparency and accountability.”

The minister assured that minor setbacks, including a shrine along the corridor and gas pipeline considerations, would not hinder progress, and that CHEC remains committed to delivering a high-quality road; meanwhile, Lagos State has started rehabilitation of the Eti-Osa/Lekki/Epe Expressway to improve connectivity for residents.